Quick Single-Serve Cauliflower Soup with Gorgonzola
Dive into the world of one-serving cauliflower soup with Gorgonzola, a culinary gem that stands out with its quick prep and cooking time, making it perfect for single servings. It’s the ideal solution for busy lifestyles, promising a gourmet experience without the usual fuss that will be ready in less than 30 minutes.
Imagine the creaminess of Gorgonzola melting into a blend of tender cauliflower, onion, and potato. This soup is not just about indulgence; it’s packed with vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. It’s a harmonious blend of health and flavor in one bowl.
It is tailored for a single serving and is the perfect choice for a rapid yet satisfying lunch or dinner.
What makes this soup a standout?
It’s the ease and speed of preparation. With just 5 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a comforting bowl of creamy delight ready to savor. It’s ideal for those days when time is scarce but the craving for something rich and fulfilling is high.
This recipe is more than just a quick fix for hunger. It fits seamlessly into your dynamic lifestyle. Easy to reheat, it’s perfect for those moments when you need a quick meal without compromising on taste or nutrition.
And if you’re planning ahead, this Cheesy Cauliflower Soup is freezer-friendly. Prepare a larger batch and freeze it for those days when you need a quick meal solution. This way, you’ll always have a homemade, delicious option ready at a moment’s notice.
Quick Note:
For a smart way to use up leftover cauliflower, consider making a delicious cauliflower pasta for one either that day or the next. This helps ensure you get the most out of your ingredients while reducing food waste.
🌟 Recipe Tips
- Choose fresh cauliflower and quality cheeses like Gorgonzola and Parmesan. Fresh ingredients elevate the flavor profile.
- Cut the cauliflower into even-sized florets. This ensures uniform cooking and a smoother texture in your soup.
- Peel and dice your potato into small pieces. They’ll cook faster and blend seamlessly into the soup for a creamy texture.
- Don’t rush the sautéing of onions and garlic. This step builds a flavor base. Cook until they’re translucent and aromatic.
- Use a hand blender for convenience. Blend until smooth, but don’t overdo it. A bit of texture adds character to your soup.
- Always season at the end. The cheese adds saltiness, so adjust your seasoning after it’s incorporated.
🥘 Ingredients & Substitutes
- Cauliflower is the star of the show, lending its unique flavor and creamy texture when blended. If cauliflower isn’t in the cards, try broccoli or even a mix of root vegetables like parsnips and carrots. They’ll bring a different but equally delicious character to your soup.
- Gorgonzola, with its robust and tangy flavor, adds a depth of taste and creamy indulgence. Not a fan or can’t find it? Opt for other blue cheeses like Stilton or Roquefort for a similar punch, or a milder feta or goat cheese for a softer flavor profile.
- Parmesan acts as a flavor enhancer, providing a salty, nutty undertone. If Parmesan is out of reach, try Asiago for a similar sharpness, or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free, nutty substitute.
- Onion is the foundation of flavor, offering a subtle sweetness when cooked. Leeks or shallots can be great alternatives, each bringing their own unique flavor and sweetness to the base of the soup.
- Garlic adds that essential aromatic kick, crucial for the depth of the soup. If fresh garlic is unavailable, a small amount of garlic powder or even finely minced shallots can provide a similar flavor profile.
- Potato is there for texture, helping thicken the soup to that perfect creamy consistency. No potatoes? Try a small amount of cooked white beans or cauliflower for thickening. They blend smoothly and maintain the creamy texture.
- Butter brings richness and rounds out the flavors. For a dairy-free option, consider using olive oil or even a vegan butter substitute. They’ll add the necessary fat component without compromising on taste.
👩🍳 Directions
Take a pot and melt the butter in it over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them until the onion becomes slightly translucent, which should take about 3 minutes.
Once the onion is translucent, add 1 cup of hot water and the diced potatoes to the pot.
Quick Note:
The smaller you dice the potatoes, the faster they will cook. So, because of that, the cooking time may differ.
Let it simmer over medium heat with the lid on for approximately 7 minutes.
Add the chopped cauliflower to the other ingredients and mix. Then, cover it with the lid and let it simmer for another 8 minutes over medium heat.
When the potatoes and cauliflower become tender, blend the soup using an immersion blender.
Next, add the Gorgonzola and Parmesan cheeses, and blend again.
As soon as the soup starts to simmer again, turn off the heat to prevent any separation.
Quick Note:
You can taste the soup at this point. If you feel the need, you can add a bit of salt, but I didn’t use additional salt as the cheeses should provide enough.
Serve immediately while it’s hot, garnished with some finely chopped dill and drizzled with a bit of oil.
🍴 How to Double the Recipe:
Doubling this Cheesy Cauliflower Soup recipe is straightforward. Simply double each ingredient. Adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Remember to use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume and ensure even cooking. Doubling the recipe not only serves more but also means you have extra to store in the fridge or freezer for a quick future meal.
Keep an eye on the cooking time; it may need a few extra minutes to ensure all ingredients are cooked through.
🍽️ Servings
Rustic Bread Bowl
- Components: Serve the cauliflower soup in a hollowed-out sourdough or rye bread bowl. Add a side of mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Presentation: Place the bread bowl on a plate, filled to the brim with the creamy soup. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley. The salad can be served on the same plate or separately.
- Occasion: Perfect for a cozy winter dinner or when you want to impress guests with a unique and comforting presentation.
Light Lunch Combo
- Components: Pair the soup with a half sandwich, like turkey and cheese or cucumber and cream cheese. Include a small portion of fruit salad on the side.
- Presentation: Serve the soup in a shallow bowl alongside the sandwich, cut diagonally. Arrange the fruit salad in a small cup or dish. Garnish the soup with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of herbs.
- Occasion: Ideal for a quick yet satisfying lunch, especially when you’re looking for a balance between hearty and light.
Elegant Dinner Starter
- Components: Present the soup as a starter with a garnish of edible flowers, a drizzle of truffle oil, and a few shavings of Parmesan.
- Presentation: Use a sophisticated soup plate or a small bowl. Place the edible flowers delicately on top and drizzle the truffle oil in a circular pattern. Finish with the Parmesan shavings.
- Occasion: Suited for a special dinner or when you want to kick off a multiple-course meal with a touch of elegance and gourmet flair.
Casual Movie Night
- Components: Serve the soup with a side of garlic bread sticks or cheese-topped croutons for dipping. Include a small bowl of olives or pickles as an extra snack.
- Presentation: Opt for a comfortable mug or a deep dish for the soup, making it easy to hold. Arrange the bread sticks or croutons on a napkin or small plate next to it.
- Occasion: Great for a relaxed evening, particularly when you’re curled up on the couch for a movie marathon or a casual gathering with friends.
🍽️ Variations
Spicy Twist
- Infuse Heat: Add a diced chili pepper or a dash of red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Garnish: Top with freshly chopped cilantro and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a cooling contrast.
Hearty Meat Version
- Include Protein: Add diced cooked bacon or pancetta into the soup. Sauté it first to render the fat, then proceed with the onion and garlic in the same pot.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with extra cooked bacon bits before serving.
Roasted Cauliflower Variation
- Roasting Cauliflower: For a nuttier flavor, try roasting the cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper before adding them to the soup.
- Herbs: Mix in fresh thyme or rosemary during roasting for an aromatic twist.
Creamy Mushroom Blend
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic. Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary for an earthy note.
Seafood Sensation
- Incorporate Seafood: After blending the soup, add cooked shrimp or lump crab meat for a luxurious seafood version.
- Lemon Zest: Garnish with lemon zest and chopped chives for a fresh, citrusy finish.
❄️ Storage
Refrigerating Your Soup
- Duration: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Container: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent any absorption of other odors from the fridge.
- Consideration: Since the soup contains dairy (Gorgonzola, Parmesan, butter), ensure it cools to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain the texture and prevent bacterial growth.
Freezing for Longer Shelf Life
- Duration: The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- Container: Freeze in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. If using bags, lay them flat for space-efficient storage.
- Consideration: Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen. Also, note that dairy-based soups may separate slightly when thawed.
Thawing and Reheating
- Thawing: For best results, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator. If in a hurry, you can use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems too thick, add a little water or stock to adjust the consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every minute to ensure even heating.
Extra Tips
- Stir Well: When reheating, especially after freezing, stir well to recombine any separated ingredients.
- Avoid Boiling: When reheating, avoid bringing the soup to a boil as it can affect the texture and flavor of the dairy components.
🤔 FAQs
How Do I Store Leftover Gorgonzola and Parmesan Cheese?
Is It Possible to Make This Soup in a Larger Batch and Freeze It?
How Can I Adjust the Thickness of the Soup?
Can I Make This Soup Without a Blender?
📔 Recipe Card:
Quick Single-Serve Cauliflower Soup with Gorgonzola
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 small Onion
- 1 clove Garlic
- 8 oz Cauliflower
- 1 small Potato
- 1 teaspoon Butter
- 2 oz Gorgonzola sweet
- 1 teaspoon Parmesan
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon Dill
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until onion is slightly translucent, about 3 minutes.1 small Onion, 1 clove Garlic, 1 teaspoon Butter
- Stir in 1 cup of hot water and diced potatoes. Simmer with lid on for about 7 minutes, noting that smaller potato dices cook faster.1 cup water, 1 small Potato
- Add chopped cauliflower, mix, cover, and simmer for another 8 minutes.8 oz Cauliflower
- Once potatoes and cauliflower are tender, blend the soup with an immersion blender.
- Add Gorgonzola and Parmesan cheeses and blend again.2 oz Gorgonzola, 1 teaspoon Parmesan
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped dill and a drizzle of oil.1 teaspoon Dill
Notes
- Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier texture, consider adding a small amount of heavy cream or half-and-half after blending the soup.
- Spice Level: For a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be added. Adjust according to your taste preference.
- Vegetable Stock Option: For an added flavor dimension, use vegetable stock instead of water when cooking the cauliflower and potato.
- Garnish Variations: Toasted nuts like walnuts or pine nuts add a pleasant crunch as a garnish, complementing the creamy texture of the soup.
- Herbal Infusions: Adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of thyme to the pot while cooking can infuse the soup with subtle herbal notes. Remember to remove these before blending.
- Cheese Alternatives: If Gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, milder blue cheeses or even a creamy Brie can be used as substitutes.
- Serving Size: This recipe is designed for one but can be easily doubled or tripled to serve more. Adjust ingredient quantities accordingly.
Nutrition
Your Turn
We’d love to hear from you after you try this recipe. Did the flavors tantalize your taste buds? Maybe you added your own twist to the recipe?
Your insights and variations are valuable to us and other readers. Whether it’s a new garnish, a different cheese, or a dietary adjustment, your unique take on the recipe can inspire others.
I recently tried this recipe, and it was a delightful experience! It’s a recipe I will definitely be returning to, and I highly recommend it to others. A solid 5-star rating from me!
I tried making it today, and it turned out great! Thank you for the recipe!
Love the touch of the gorgonzola!
Oh my goodness – this is delicious!! I had some leftover chicken, which I added, along with some mushrooms. The flavor was tasty and the soup was filling.
Very good recipe. it is even better the second day.